Mining machine



M. P. HOLMES Dec. 23, 1930.

MINING MACHINE Original Filed March 14, 1925 5 Sheets-Sheet l M. P. HOLMES MINING MACHINE Dec. 23, 1930.

Original Filed March 14, 1925 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 a awnrwmw Fil \ s N w 3 M. P. HOLMES MINING MACHINE Original Filed March 14, 1925 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 Dec. 23, 1930.

M. P. HOLMES MINING MACHINE Dec. 23, 1930.

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MINING MACHINE Original Filed March 14, 1925 Sheets-Sheet 5 Z O Z17 Z41 WE: 247 246 248 244 Z49 Z 263256 Z58 Z52 ZM v 1 Z g 126 T Patented Dec. 23, 1930 UNITED {STATES PATENT OFFICE MORRIS P. HOLMES, 0F CLAREMON'I, NEW HAMPSHIRE, ASSIGNOR TO SULLIVAN MA- CHINERY COMPANY, A CORPORATION OF MASSACHUSETTS MINING MACHINE Application filed March 14, 1925, Seria1 No. 15,615. Renewed June 29, 1929.

My invention relates to mining machines.

An object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine. Another object of my invention is to provide a mining machine having improved feeding means. A further object of my invention is to provide a flexibly fed mining machine slidable on its own bottom on a mine bottom wherein improved means are provided for controlling movement of the machine during the various operations thereof. Still another object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine of the flexibly fed type having advance and receding flexible feeding portions wherein improved variable speed means are provided to act on said portions to control movement of the machine during the various operations thereof. Still another object of my invention is to provide an improved miningmachine of the inverti ble type presenting parallel plane supporting surfaces wherein the machine may selectively operate on one surface as an undercutter or may be inverted and operate on the other surface as an overcutter. object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine of the flexibly fed type wherein improved interchangeable means are. provided whereby the machine may be selectively utilized with a continuous flexible feeding member or with'separate flexible feeding members. Still another object of my invention is to provide an improved flexibly fed mining machine of the convertible chain or wire rope type having improved and simplified means whereby the parts may be interchanged with facility and for guiding the feed chain or the feed rope. Still another object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine of the flexibly fed type having improved driving and guiding means for the flexible feeding member. A still further object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine having improved means for guiding the machine during longitudinal movement thereof and for guarding the cutter bits of the rapidly moving cutter chain. Still another object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine having im- Another proved truck driving means therefor. Another object of my invention is to provide an improved mining machine of the flexibly fed room'and pillar type wherein improved feed ing and cutting mechanism of an exceedingly simple and compact character is provided, thus producing a machine of relatively low height especiallyadapted to use in low vein work. A further object of my invention is to provide a mining machine operable to cut in opposite directions having an exceedingly simple and compact'general arrangement of parts. These and other objectsand advantages of my invention will, however, hereinafter more fully appear.

In the accompanying drawings I have shown for purposes of illustration two forms which my invention may assume in practice.

In these drawings, j v

Fig. 1 is a plan View of a mining machine constructed in accordance with one embodiment of my invention, the view being partially broken away in section to facilitate illustration.

Fig. 2 is a side elevational View of the machine shown in Fig. 1.

F ig; 3 is an elevational view of the front or cutter bar end of n y improved mining machine, the view being partially broken away in section to facilitate illustration.

Figpdis an end elevational View of the rear or feeding end of my improved mining machine.

Fig. 5 is a side elevational view of the machine illustrated in its inverted or overcutting position. p

Fig. 6 is a detail sectional view taken substantially on line 6-6 of Fig. 1, illustrating a portion of my improved sumping guide and cutter chain guard.

Fig. '7 is a transverse horizontal sectional viewtalren substantially on line 77 of Fig. 4, the view being shown partially in plan.

Fig. 8 is a detail transverse vertical sectional view taken substantially on line ,88 of Fig. 2 illustrating a portion of the improved guiding means for the flexible feeding member.

Fig. 9 is a detail sectional View illustrating RUG a portion of my improved sumping device and cutter chain guard.

Fig. 10 is a detail view, partially in section, illustrating portion of my improved feed clutch controlling mechanism.

11 isa central longitudinally extending vertical sectional view taken substantially on line 1111 of Figs. 1 and 7, the view being shown partially in side elevation.

Fig. 12 is a developed horizontal sectional view of a detail of my improved cutter chain clutch controlling mechanism.

Fig. 13 is a transverse vertical sectional .aken substantially on line 13-13 of 11, the view being partially shown in r ion. Fig. 1% is a side elevational view similar to that shown in Fig. 2 illustrating the machine W161] adapted to use with a plurality of wire reed ropes.

Fig. 1.5 is a partial plan view of the machine shown in Fig. 14. the view being shown partially in section to facilitate illustration.

Fig. 16 is a plan view of a wheeled transport truck upon which my improved mining machine is adapted to be supported.

Fig. 17 is a plan view of a transport truck of the tracklaying tread type and upon which the machine is adapted to be supported during transport.

Fig. 18 is a diagrammatic view illustrating: the different cutting positions of the machine when cutting: from right to left.

In the illustrative embodiment of my invention shown in Figs. 1 to 13, 16, 17. and 18, I have shown a mining machine generally designated 1 which is herein of the flexibly fed room and pillar type slidable on the mine bottom and havinga frame 2 of generally rectangular shape presenting parallel plane surfaces 3 and 1 upon which the machine is adapted to be selectively supported, that is, when the machine is being utilized as an undercutter or inverted and utilized as an overcutter. The machine frame 2 comprises a bottom or bed section 5, a motor section 6 disposed at the front end of the machine, and a feed and cutter mechanism carrying section 7. the sections 6 and 7 being supported upon the section and rigidly secured thereto in any approved manner as by screws 8. More over. suitably rigidly secured within and projecting forwardly from the bed section 5 is a rigid cutter bar 9 about the outer edges of which a cutter bit carrying cutter chain 10 is adapted to be circulated, the cutter chain being driven through improved transmission means, hereinafter described, from a motor 11, herein of the reversible type, housed with in the section 6. As illustrated, a frame sec tion 12 is secured, as by screws 13, to the rear end of the frame section 7 and by this frame section the improved feed operating or con- "rolling members 14 and 15 herein in the form of chain sprockets, likewise driven from the motor 11, and improved guiding means, hereinafter described, are carried.

In describing my improved cutting mechanism it will herein be observed that the rear end of the longitudinally extending horizontal armatm-e shaft 16 of the motor 11 has secured thereto by means of a key and nut and washer connection 17, a spur motor pinion 18 (see Figs. 7 and 11). The gear 18 is provided with ahub portion 19 ournaled within a suitable ball bearing 20 carried within a bore 21 formed within a supporting member or bracket secured, as by suitable screws 23. to the motor frame (3. The member 22 is in turn carried within bores 21 disposed coairially with the axis of the motor and formed within the frame section 7. It will thus beseen that the member 22 rigidly secured within the frame section rming an exceedingly stable support for the armature shaft 16. [is illustrated the motor pinion 18 is meshed with a spur gear secured, by a key and screw connection 26, to a longitudinally extending shaft 2? (liffl'Xl-scd below ant parallel with As the armature shaft 16. illustrated, the shaft 27 jouri llOtl within longitudinally spaced ball bearin' s 28 car ried by a bracket rigidly secured, pre ferably by one of the screws 8, to the bottom of the frame section 7. Furthermore, the shaft 27 has secured, as by a screw connection 30, at its forward end, bevel pinion 31 which is meshed with a large bevel gear 32 which is in turn secured, as by keys 3 and 341-, to the adjacent ends of vertically disposed. coaxial snafts and 36.

The lower shuft ill; i journaled within suitable vertically spaced ball bearings carried within suitable aunular supporting or retaining members 353 am. 39 suitably carried by the frame set-tit 7 and 5, respectively. Moreover. the lower end of the shaft 36 has secured tl ereto. as by a screw and key connection 40, a spur p ion ll which is meshed with a large spur gear 42, the hub of which is keyed, by a key -13, to the lower end of a vertical drive shaft 4%, the shaft 4A; being disposed in the rear of and parallel with the shafts and 86 in the longitudinal vertical center line of the machine. It will be noted that the spur 4-1 and 12 are disposed within the orbit of the cutter chain 10 contiguous to the bottom of the machine and are housed within a portion of the bed section As illustrated. the shaft .1 1 is provided with av reduced portion at its lower end which journaled within a suitable ball bearing carried within vertical bore 46 formed within an upstanding boss in turn formed upon a removable plate 17 rigidly secured, as by screws -8, to the machine frame, while the upper end of the shaft 4A is disposed within an annular hearing member 4-9 which is in turn journaled within a ball bearing 50 disposed within a vertical bore 51 formed within the frame section 7. i It will also be observedthat an adjust able lock nut 52 is threadedly secured to a reduced threaded portion 53 formed on the shaft l-and this look nutpermits proper longitudinal positioning of the shaft. removable cover plate'54is provided for permitting access to thebearings and shaft and this plate is disposed flush with the surface 4: of the machine frame and-is secured to the frame section7 by means of' suitable screws 55. It will further be observed that the hub of the gear 4-2 providedwith a cylindrical bearing surface 56 on which, and in nular bearing sleeves 56 carried'by the frame sections and 7, respectiv-ely,"a cutter chain sprocket 57 0f the usual type is journaled and this cutter chain sprocket cooperates with the cutter chain to drivethe latter in: a. Well known manner. As illustrated, the cut ter chain sprocket .57 is adapted tobe connected' in operative driving relation w th the shaft 41a by means of 'a clutch shipper member 58 splined, as at 59, to the shaft H and v which shipper is provided at its lower end with external clutch teeth 601wh1ch are adapted to cooperate with internal clutch teeth 61 formed within the hub of the crtter chain sprocket 57. Furthermore, the shipper member 58 is provided with a circumferen tial roove 62 with'which the arms of a shinper yoke 63] cooperate, the shipper yoke being pivoted, as at 6 1, on a transversehorizontal axis on an adjustable member 65 threadedly'secured within the frame section 12. As illustrated, improved opera ing and interlocking means are provided for the'shipper yoke 63. and thisinterlockingmeans coinprises an operatingrod 66 pivotally connected as at 67 to "an upstanding arm 68 formed on the shipper yoke and this rod-projeots'outwardly from the machine frame through an aperture 69 formed within the frame section 12. The outer end ofthisrod is threa'dedly secured, as at 7 0, within a block member 71. l iVotally mounted on the block 71 as by a transverse pin72 (seeFig. 12) is an operating member 73 provided with parallel arms which straddle a vertically disposed stub shaft 74, the latter forming a'su'pport for certain of the guide members for the flexible feeding member, to be hereinafter described. The shaft 4 is non-rotatably secured, as by within longitudinally projecting s o disposed intermediate the feed L ting members 1 1 and and which are formed u on the frame section 12 and this shaft 4 is notched at each side thereof, as at .77 and 78, and is further provided with-a transverse slot 79 whichconnects the notch es 77 and 78. It will further be observed that the operating member 7 3 is provided with inwardly projecting pins '80 which are adapted to selectively'lie in the notches 77 and '78. Froin'the foregoing description it will be evident that when it is desired by the operator to connect the sprocket 57 in opera- 'tive driving relation with the shaft as the to bej passed through the slot 79 and simultaneously swinging the shipper yoke 63 about pivot, thus moving shipper member 58 longitudinally of the shaft and the clutch teeth and if in operating relation. W hen the shipper m2 is in this position the o; er'ating inemoer 73 is then swung downwardly, bringing the pins 80 into engagement vwith the notch77, thus locking the shipper member '58 in position. It will also he noted that a similar of notches are provided in a plane above the slots '79 (see Fig. 11), thus permitting the operating member 73 to be locked. in position when the machine is in its inverted position. lt'willjthus be seenthat the cutter ehain'sprocket,may be rotated or remainidle' at he will of the operator while iously operates.

in my impro d feeding mechanism it will her-err e noted that the feed operating members i l and are adapted tobe either independently or simultaneously driven from the motor 11 tlrough improved transmission means, aereinafter described, at a fast or haulage speed and'at a'slow or cutting speed in the same direction, the feed operating members rotating in opposite relation. In specifically desc ibing the fast feed transmission ineansit will herein be observed that the shaft 35 is journaled at its upperend within a suitable ball bear f 81 (see Fig. 11) carried wit in a 'ert caliy disposed bore 82 formed within the 'ame section 7. An adjustable lock nut 83 also provided, similar to the lock nut 52, for longitudinally positioning the shaft 'As illustrated, a cover plate 8 1 secured, as by screws 85 to the frame section 7, is provided to permit free access to tl e upper end of the shaft 35 and the cooperating parts. Moreover, secured intermediate tne ends of the shaft 35, as by a key 86, is worm 87 which is meshed with worm 88 and 89 rotatable in opposite relation on longitudinallyextending parallel axes alined with the s ices of the feed'operating'members 1e and 15 respectively and spaced equally at each side of the vertical central longitudinal axis of the machine (see Fig. 7). The worm gears 88 and 89 each have secured thereto, as by studs 90and 91 respectively, hub portions 92 and 93, th

former being journaled within bearing sleeves 94 carried by longitudinally extending horizontal shafts 95 and disposed coaxially with the worm gears 88 and 89. As illustrated, the forward ends of the shafts 95 are journaled within suitable ballbearings 96 carried within suitable retaining members 97 suitably secured within the frame section 7 while the rear ends of the shafts 95 are at the will of the operator.

Associated with the feed controlling fast 1 and slow speed clutches 102, 141 for the feed operating member 14 and the fast and slow speed clutches 103, 142 for the feed operating member 15 are improved controllingmeans thereforwhereby the clutches may be selec tively applied. Such means for each set of clutches comprises shipper yokes 148 and 149 (see Figs. 7, 10, 11 and 13) disposed intermediate the worm gears 88,7182, and 89, 133, respe'ctively,carrying at their upper ends on transverse aXes rollers 150 and 151 which are adapted to cooperate with the cylindrical plane clutch shipper members 109, 145, respectively, for each set of clutches and these shipper members are pivoted at their lower ends on traverse pins 152 and 158 carried by hubs 155 and 156 secured to a transversely disposed horizontal shaft 157 and a cylindrical sleeve 158, respectively. As illustrated, the hub 155 has threaded thereto (see Fig. 13) a stud 159 provided with a radially projecting pin 160 which projects through a circumferentially extending slot 161 formed in the sleeve 158 and this pin cooperates with the shaft 157 The slot 151 permits movement of the hub 155 relative to the shaft 157. As shown, the hub 156 has threadedly secured thereto a stud 162 which is provided with a radially extending pin 163 which projects within an aperture 164 formed in the sleeve 158, agroove 165 being provided in the shaft 157, thus permitting rotation between thejlatte'r and the sleeve. It will herein be observed that secured to the shaft 157 and the sleeve 158, at the advanc- "ing side of the machine, are operating levers 166 and 167, respectively, each of these levers being provided with a spring pressed plunger 168 which is adapted to engage suitable apertures 169. formed in, the machine frame, thus "permitting the levers and consequently the shipper yokes to be locked in their different adjusted positions. It will further be observed that the hubs 155 and 156 are each provided with plane abutment surfaces 170 and 171 which are adapted to be engaged by projections 17 2 and 17 8, respectively, formed on the lower portions of the shipper yokes 148 and 1491and that coiled springs 174 acting between the shipper yokes are provided which areadapted to normally force the abutments172 and 17 8 against the surfaces 170 and 171 formed on the hub. From the foregoing description it Will be evident that the levers 166 and 167 may be selectively manipulated, thus rotating either the shaft 157 or the sleeve 158 and rotating the hubs, thus causing one or the other of the abutment surfaces 170, 171 to swing one of the yokes 148, 149 away from one of the clutch operating members andthe other yoke into engagement with the other clutch operating member, the yoke swinging about its pivot at that time. The spring 174 compresses upon over obvious that the possibility of simultaneous application of the fast and slow speed controlling clutches for each of the members 14 and 15 is entirely eliminated. It will also be noted. that a cap member 175 engages the shaft 157 and the sleeve 158 at the opposite end thereof from the levers 166, 167 and this cap is held in position on the shaft by means ofa radiallyexpansible split Washer 176.

Cooperating with the feed operating members 14 and 15 and the improved guiding means, to be hereinafter described, isa continuous flexible feeding member 180, herein in the form of a feed chain relative to which the machine is adaptedlto move, and which feeding member presents advance and reced ing flexible feeding portions 181 and 182 havingfree ends which are adapted to be connected tofiXed extraneous-abutments." It

will herein be notedthat each'side of the forward end of the machine frame 2 is provided with rectangular vertically disposed plates 183 secured to the motor section 6 by means of screws 184 and these plates have formed" thereon laterally projecting cylindrical bosses 185 (see Fig. 1) upon which swing arms 186 are journaled. The lower end of each of the arms 186 is provided with a cylinarms 186 is a lug 191 which is adapted to selectively engage abutments 192 and 193 formed upon a circular plate 194. This plate is secured in non-rotative relation with respect to the cylindrical member 185 by means of a clutch and screw connection 195. It will also be observed that disposed at either side of the rear end of the machine frame are guide sheaves 196 each being j ournaled upon a bearing sleeve 197 (see Fig. 8) carried upon a laterally projecting cylindrical portion 198 formed upon a bracket 199 suitably secured as by a screw 200 and held in non-rotative relation with respect to the machine frame by means of suitable dowel pins 201, screw and washer connections 202 also being provided for preventing lateral displacement of each of the guide sheaves 196. It will herein be noted that at each corner of the rear end of the machine are coaxially disposed sets of guide sheaves 203, 204 and 205, 206 journaled upon vertical parallel shafts 207 and 208, respectively, carried by longitudisimilar to the bosses 7 6. It will also be noted that journaled at the upper and lower ends of the shaft 74-, heretofore described, are coaxially disposed guide sheaves 210 and 211 and these sheaves and the sheaves 203, 2041, 205 and 206 are rotatable in horizontal planes substantially tangential to the exterior peripheries of the feed operating members 1 1 and 15. From the foregoing it will be seen that the advance portion 181 of the feed chain 180 may be extended from the left hand rib of the coal around the front guide sheave 189, carried by the advancing side of the machine, the lug 191 being held against the lower abutment 192, and then rearwardly along the side of the machine over the guide sheave 196, around the lower corner guide sheave 203, upwardly around the feed operating member 1 1, the slack bight of the chain then passing rearwardly around the upper guide sheave 204 coaxial with the guide sheave 203, and transversely of the machine around the upper corner guide sheave 205, downwardly around 7 the feed operating member 15, and laterally from the rear end of the machine to the right hand rib of the coal when the machine is cutting from right to left. The slack bight of the feed chain is of suflicient length to permit the necessary independence of action of t ie feed operatingmembers 14 and 15. It will herein be observed that when the machine is cutting from left to rightthe controlling levers 166 and 167 are transferred to the other side of the machine, as indicated by dotted lines in Fig. 1, the cap member 175 then being removed and transferred to the other end of the shaft 157, the chain reeved relative to the guide sprockets and feed operating members in a reverse manner, the motor 11 being reversed at this time, and the cutter bits reversed in their respective links in the usual manner. If desired, the slack portion of the feed chain may be extended from the upper guide sheave 20 i and downwardly between the guide sheaves 210, 211, upwardly around the feed operating member 15, then laterally around the guide sheave 210 and thence rearwardly to the right hand rib, the feed operating member 15 being adapted to pay out the flexible receding portion instead of winding it in during certain of the operations of the machine.

Under certain conditions it is desirable for the cutter bar to operate at a substantial distance above the bottom surface of the mine, for instance, when it desired to cut out a dirt or slate hand between the seams of coal. Under such conditions the machine is enabled without change to be bodily inverted, the upper plane surface 4, as shown in Fig. 2, being disposed upon the mine bottom at that time (see 5 However, when the machine is disposed in such manner, if de sired, the swing arms may be swung about nals 185, as indicated by dotted i ig. 5, with the abutment 191 formed thereon engaging the other abutment surface 193 and the screws 200 holding the brackets 199 C211Z -,l111 the sheaves 196 may be released and the bracket 199 swung 180 degrees, as Sl10i n in dotted lines in Fig. 5, and the screws are then again tightened. The feed chain 180 is then rereeved relative to the feed operating members 1d and 15 and is extended below the guide sheave 196 and around the front swing arm and laterally thereof to the rib, the feed chain then operating in a plane a substantial distance below the plane of the cutter bar.

Improved means are provided. for guiding the machine and bar during its longitudinal sumpin, movement and for guarding the optor from the rapidly moving cutter bits. 1S means comprises parallel laterally spaced tubular members 215 which are adapted. to project through longitudinally extending openings 216 formed in the bed section 5 below the frame sections 6 and 7.

Th ve tubular members 215 have secured thereto, preferably by riveting, laterally projecting lugs 21'? which extend within the lower outer corners of the interior of the bed section 5 of the machine frame, thus preventing rota lion of the members 215 relative to the frame and forming stops which are adapted to engage longitudinally spaced abutments 218 and 219 formed on the bed frame, thus preventing excessive movement of the members 215 in either direction The forward ends of the tubular members 215 are provided with inwardly projecting collars 220 preferably brazed thereto which are adapted to be engaged by external collars 221 formed on parallel tubular members 222 which are adapted to telescope within the members 215, the collars 220 thus preventing the withdrawal of the inner members 222 from the outer members 215. As illustrated, the forward ends of the tubular members 222 are connected together by upper and lower transverse cross members 223 and 224-, the a being; provided with a curved shoe poi-ion 225 adapted to rest on the mine bottom and thus support the cutter bar. It will herein be noted that these members 223 and 224-. are provided with centrally located inwardly projecting guide portions 226 and 227 (see Figs. 1 and 6), respectively, adapted tter to slide in longitudinally extending grooves 228 and 229 formed in the upper and lower surfaces of the cutter bar 9, thus providing guiding means for the bar. It will further be noted that these tubular members are each open or cut away at their inner sides, as at 230 and 231, respectively, thus permitting the outer edges of the cutter bar to project therein. Moreover, the tubular members 215, 222 form guard members for the cutter chain 1.0, completely encircling or housing the latter,

thus preventing the operator from coming into contact with the rapidly moving cutter bitswhen the machine is operating e ther as an undercutter or an overcutter. evident that the tubular members 215 a ml 222 may he slid outwardly from the machine frame and extended over substantially the length of the cutter bar when desired, the stop members 217 and 221 preventing separation of the parts. It will further be evident that these tubular members may be telescoped within the machine frame substan tially within the longitudinal limits thereof thus forming an exceedingly compact structure; v y

In the form of my invention shown in Figsr14 and 15 it will herein be observed that the chain engaging feed operating meinbers or sprockets 14 and 15 have been re moved from the shafts 117 and replaced by rope winding drums 235 and 236 upon which suitable wire ropes 237 and 238 are adapted to be wound, these'wire ropes forming separate advance and receding feeding portions for the machine It will also be observed that the guides 189 carried by the front swing arms are replaced by suitable pulleys 239 while the guide sheaves 196 are replaced by suitable pulleys 240. It will further be observed that the sets of chain guide sheaves 203, 2045205, 2063210, and 211 disposed on parallel vertical axes at each side of the feed operating members 14 and 15 have been removed and replaced by suitable rope guiding pulleys 241. This form of my machine operates substantiallyin the same manner as the feed chain form heretofore described with the exception that the slack bight of the flexible feeding member between the feed operating members 181 and 182 is omitted. In each form of my invention it will be observed that there are shown suitable spaces marked Con- 7 my machine are adapted to be mounted upon a wheeled transport truck, as shown in Fig. 16, and this truck comprises a truck driving gear 242 rotatable on a longitudinally extending axis and which is adapted to be connected in operative driving relation with either the feed operating member 15 or the feed operating member 236 by meansof the slidable clutch member 127 (see Fig. 11), the clutch member 127 being adapted to connect the gear 125 and the gear 242 in operative driving relation, thus enabling the truck driving gear 242 to be driven through the improved fast and slow feed drivingconnections, heretofore described, from the driving motor 11. Suitable reverse gears 243- are provided which permit the transversely disposed truck driving shaft 244 to be driven in opposite directions at either a fast or a It will" be slow speed under the control of the friction clutches 103, 142. The truck wheels 245 are adapted to be driven-from the shaft 244 through suitable chain andsprocket connections 246 and 247, as illustrated. Secured to the shaft 244 is a suitable pulley 248 which is adapted to drive, through a belt connection 249, a pulley 250 secured to the usual electric cable reel 251. My improved mining machines are also adaptedto be mountedon a transport truck of the tracklaying tread type and in this case a plurality of truck driving gears 252 and 253 are provided disposed on' longitudinally extending parallel axes equally spaced at each side of the center line of the truck frame. These truck driving gears'252 and 253 are adapted to be connected in driving relation with the shafts 117 by means of the slidable clutch members 127 which areadapted to connect the gears 125 and the gears 252 and 253 in operative driving relation. Suitable reversing mechanisms I 254 and 255 areprovided for each of the truck driving gears, thus permitting the coaxially disposed transverse truck driving shafts 256 and 257 to be independently or simultaneously driven through the T improved feeding mechanism at either a fast or a slow speed in opposite directions under the control of the friction clutches 103, 142 and 102 141. As illustrated, the tracklayingtreads 258 and 259 are of any suitable form and are adapted to be driven from the shafts 256 and257, respectively, through chain and sprocket connections 260 and 261 in any approved manner. It will further be observed that the truck driving shaft 256 has secured thereto a pulley 263 which is connected through a belt connection 264 in driving relation with a pulley 265 secured to a usual electric cable reel 266. If desired, the cable reel 266 may be driven from the shaft 257 or from both the shafts 256 and 257. Fromthe foregoing it will be seen that when the machine is mount ed on the type of truck shown in Fig. 16 the truck wheels 245 may be driven in either directionrelative to a trackway directly from the mining machine feeding mechanism at either a'fast or slow speed under the control of the fast and slow speed feed clutches 103, 142 and the reverse mechanism 243 on the truck. lVhile the machine is supported on the V the truck to move forwardly or rearwardly, 'or when one or the other of the tracklaying treads 258 and 259'is held stationary,.to enj ablethe machine to be turned in either direction in a well known manner.

In the operation of my improved mining machine it will herein be noted that when the machine is mounted upon its transport truck, power is adapted to be transmitted from the motor 11 through my improved transmission mechanism to the truck wheels to drive the latter at either a fast or slow speed under the control of the feed control clutches. Vv'hen the machine has been transported into a room from the main entry the clutches 127 are disconnected from the truck drive and slid forwardly, connecting the feed operating members 14 and 15 with the drive shafts 117. One or the other of the flexible feeding portions 181 and 182 is then extended to. a stationary abutment or roof jack in ad Vance of the machine and the desired feed controlling clutch is operated rotating the feed operating member at either a fast or a slow speed, thus moving the mining machine from the truck relative to the flexible feeding portion in the usual manner. \Vhen the machine is unloaded from the truck the machine is advanced to the face adjacent the righthand rib, when the machine is cutting from right to left as shown in full lines in Fig. 18, at the desired speed likewise under the control of the feed operating members 14 or 15. The receding flexible portion 182 is then connected adjacent the right hand rib of the coal to a jack or take-up device A, while the advancing portion 181 is extended laterally from the front guide sheave 189 of the machine at the advancing side of the machine to a jack or take-up device B disposed adjacent the face at the left hand rib of the coal. The cutter chain sprocket 57 is then connected in driving relation with the motor 11 by means of the clutch 60, 61, thus causing the cutter chain to be rapidly circulated about the cutter bar 9. The clutch 142 controlling the slow speed drive to the feed operating member 15 is then applied and the machine is fed relative to the flexible portion 182 and the bar fed or sumped into the face of the coal at a slow or cutting speed, the friction clutch 141 controlling the slow speed drive for the feed operating member 14, maintaining the desired controlling tension on the advance feeding portion 181 at that time. It will be evident that the sumping speed may be lowered at will by slipping the slow speed friction clutch 142. It will herein be noted that in extremely soft cutting, the bar may be sumped or fed into the coal by means of the fast speed friction 103. Itwill further be noted that if desired both of the flexible portions 181, 182 may be secured at the face of the coal by suitable roof jacks and the machine fed relative thereto by means of the members 14 and 15 at the desired cutting speed. As the cutter bar is sumped into the coal the tubular members 215 and 222, which normally extend outwardly over the cutter bar, telescope within the machine frame; After the sumping outhas been made the friction clutch member 141 controlling the slow speed drive for the feed operating member 14 is applied causing the latter to move the machine relative to the advanced flexible portion 181, thus causing the forward end of the machine to swing laterally and bringing the cutter bar to a point substantially perpendicular to the face of the coal. The machine is then fed transversely across the face relative to the advanced portion 181 at a slow or cutting speed by means of the feed operating member 14 under control of the slow speed clutch 141, the desired controlling tension. being maintained on the receding flexible portion 182 at that time by means of the slow speed clutch 142 controlling the rotation of the feed operating member 15, the latter constantly tending to draw in the receding portion 182 at a slow speed. By maintaining such tension on the receding portion 182 the rear end of the machine is prevented from moving forwardly, swinging the bar out from the coal. If it is desired to angle the machine during the transverse out, for instance if extremely hard material is encountered by the cutter hits, the rotation of the feed operating member 14 may be de' creased under the control of the slow speed friction clutch 141 while the speed of the rotation of the feed operating member 15 may be increased by the application of the fast speed clutch 103 and the rear end of the machine is then swung rearwardly until the cutter bar is at the desired inclination relative to the coal face. If it is desired to swing the machine in the opposite direction the tension on the receding flexible portion 182 is decreased by release of the slow speed friction 142, the pull on the advancing por tion 181 and the reaction of the cutter bits against the coal causing the rear end of the machine to swing forwardly until the bar is at the desired angle. At the end of the transverse cut the speed of rotation of the feed operating member 14 is decreased by suitable release of the slow speed clutch 141 and the speed of rotation of the feed operating member 15 is increased by suitable application of the fast speed clutch 103, thus causing the bar to be slightly angled as indicated by dotted lines in Fig. 18. A suitable roof jack is then placed against the transverse member 223 of the sumping guide and the advanced flexible portion 181 is then extended rearwardly from the guide sheave 196 on the advancing side of the machine to the rear of the machine and the free end thereof is secured by means of the roof jack B, the latter being removed from the face at that time. The slow speed clutch 141 controlling the feed operating member 14 is then applied moving the machine relative to the advance portion 181 and the cutter bar is withdrawn from the coal at the desired cutting speed, the tubular members 215 and 222 sliding from the mamil-L the machine is cutting from left to right the operation is substantially the same, with the exception that the receding feeding portion 182 is then used as the advance portion and the advance portion 181 is then used as the receding portion, the motor 11 being reversed, the feed chain suitably rereeved relative to the feed operating members 14 and 15 and the guides, and the cutter bits reversed in their respective links.

The operation of the wire rope form of the machine shown in Figs. 14 and .15 is substantially the same as the chain form heretofore described with the exception that a plurality of separate feeding portions or ropes are utilized instead of the continuous feeding port-ion and these ropes are wound upon the drums 235 and 236, respectively. The operation of both forms of my machine when utilized as an overcutter is substantially the same as the operation of the machine when used as an undercutter, with the exception that the machine is bodily inverted with the cutter bar at a substantial distance above the mine bottom. It will herein be noted that during the various operations of the machine disclosed, excessive strain or load upon the feed operating members 14 and 15 is obviated by means of the coiled springs 174; between the shipper yokes for each set of the clutches 102, 14:1 and 103, 14:2, respectively, the springs compressing or yielding upon such overload. Various other operations of the machine by means of my invention will be clearly apparent to those skilled in the art.

As a result of my. invention it will herein 3e noted that an improved mining machine is provided which is operable to cut inopposite directions having improved flexible feeding and controlling means therefor. It will further be noted that an improved mining machine is provided having an improved arrangementof the transmission means and the feed operating members whereby the machine may be controlled and fed with facility and having improved truck driving connections. at will also be noted that an improved mining machine is provided of exceedingly compact rugged character especially adapted to use in low vein work having improved and simplified cutting and feeding mechanism. It will still further be noted that improved guiding means for the machine and gumding means for the cutter baris pro vided which is operative whether the ma: chine is operating as an undercutter or an overcutter. It will also be noted that the machine is substantially symmetrical on each side of the longitudinal center line thereof, thusproducing a well balanced mechanism. Other advantages of'my improved mining machine will be clearly apparent to those skilled in the art. 1

VVhile I have in this application specifically described two formswhich my invention may assume in practice, it will be understood that these forms of the same are shown for pure poses of illustration and that the invention maybe modified and embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or the scope of the appended claims.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In a mining machine, a driving motor, and feeding means driven from the rear end thereof including a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperatedirectly with flexible feeding means, and power transmission means connected with said feed operating member including a worm gear disposed coaxially with said member.

2. In a mining machine, a driving motor, and feeding means driven from the rear end thereof including a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and power transmission means connected with said 'feed operating member including a pluralling means therefor including a friction clutch disposed coaxially with each ofsaid members.

4. In a m ning machine, a driving .motor,

and feeoing means driven thereby including feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes and adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means and driving and-controlling means therefor including a plurality of friction clutches disposed coaxially with each of said members.

5. In a mining machine, a driving motor,

'a plurality of feed operating members adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means and rotatable on parallel axes, and transmission means between said motor and each of said feed operating members including a plurality of speed controlling clutches individual to each feed operating member.

6. In a mining machine, a driving motor,

a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes and each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and said feed operating members inwith and individual to each of said members.

8. In a mining machine, a driving motor, a. plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel longitudinally extending axes and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and said members including a plurality of worm gears disposed coaxially with and individual to each of said members.

9. In a mining machine, a driving motor, a plurality of feed operatitng members rotatable on axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and trans mission means between said motor and said members including a plurality of friction clutches.

10. In a mining machine, a driving motor, a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and variable speed transmission means between said motor and each of said members including a friction clutch.

11. In a mining machine, a driving motor, a plurality of feed operating members each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means and rotatable on parallel axes, and transmission means between said motor and said members including a plurality of worms rotatable on vertical axes between the axes of said members.

12. The combination with a mining machine, of feeding means therefor including parallel feed operating members adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and actuating means therefor including a plurality of worms. disposed vertically between the parallel axes of said members and rotating at different speeds.

13. The combination with a mining ma chine, of feeding means therefor including parallel feed operating members adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and fast and slow speed actuating means therefor including a plurality of worms disposed vertically between the parallel axes of said members.

14,-. The combination with a mining machine, of feeding means therefor including parallel feed operating members adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and actuating means therefor inciudii a. plurality of worms dispo ed vert cally bet the parallel axes of said me here; and common to both of said menbers.

15. The combinatioi. with a mining machine, of feeding mechanism therefor including substantially parallel to d operating a; members rotatalle on axes extendii long tudinally of the machine and adaotcd to co-' operate with flexible feeding me and fast and slow speed actuating in .nerefor including driving mecl'ianism disposed substan tially in a zone between tl e parallel axes of said members.

1. In a mining machine having substantially parallel feed operating members adapted to cooperate with flexible and rotatable on axes cxteiu ongitudinally of the machine, c. ll; mcchan' actuating means for said meml a plurality of substantially vertical shafts, dri *ing connections between said she. and c.)

l ity of wornrs said members. incluc 1g a pur carried by said shafts, respectively.

17. In a mining mac ne having sul'istantially parallel feed operatn V adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding int-ans a; and rotatable on axes e:- n ing longitudinally of the machine, cm mechanism, and fast and slow speed actu means for id members. including pl ,7 f antially vertical shafts, and driving co; rions between said shafts and said members inlllCllllg a plurality of worms carried by said .l121,"'S, respectively.

18. A mining machine l means therefor includin a p operating members adapted to coope rectly with flexible feeding means ble on substantially longitudinz v axes, and actuating means for sea including a plurality of shafts coaxially with said members. common to each of said other shaft: ing the latter and angularly (lisp tive theretoin position e" I l 19. In a mining machine, a member adapted to cooper flexible feeding means a an axis extending longituc chine, and driving means for cluding a shaft disposed c I axis, a second shaft disposed tra and laterally offset from mounted directly on each of said sha [S4 meshing with each other.

20. In a mining machine, a lmrizoutal 1-) motor extending longitudinally of the machine, and feeding mechanism including relatively rotatable flexible feeding member winding members disposed on axes parallel with that of said motor, and driving mecha- Haw! cum.

c directly bar insaid 1 disposed on parallel axes parallel with that of said motor, and driving mechanism between said motor and said members includ ing a plurality of friction clutches disposed coaxially with one of the latter.

28. In a mining machine, a motor and feeding mechanism including relatively rotatable flexible feeding member winding members disposed on parallel axes parallel with that of said motor, and driving mech anism between said motor and said members including a plurality offriction clutches posed coaxially with each of the latter.

24. In a mining machine, a motor, a feedoperating member rotatable on an ex tending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means be tween said motor and said member includ ing a plurality of worms selectively open able to rotate said member.

25. In a mining machine, a motor, a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means bctween said motor and said member including a plurality of worms rotatable on vertical axes.

26. In a mining machine, a motor, a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and said feed operating member including a plurality of worm gears disposed coaxially with the latter.

' 27. In a mining machine, a motor, a feed operating member rotatable on an axis ex tending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission aetween said motor and said feed operating member including a plurality of worm gears, a transmission shaft disposed c n ly with said member, and friction clutches for selectively connecting said gears with said shaft.

28. The combination with a mining ma chine. of feeding means therefor including a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to co operate with flexible feeding means, and driving and controlling means for said members including a sliding clutch disposed coaxiallywith each of said member-sand a common driving motor for said members.

29. 111 amining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed sprockets rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate with a flexible feed chain, transmission means between said motor and said sprockets, and independent controlling means for said sprockets.

30. In a mining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed sprockets rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate with a flexible feed chain, fast and slow speed transmission means between said motor and said sprockets, and independent controlling means for said sprockets.

31. In a mining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between one of said members and said motor including planetary gearing arranged coaxially with the latter member.

In a mining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed operating membersrotatable on 7 parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine'and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission mcans between said motor and one of said members including worms rotatable on parallel vertical axes, and a plurality of worm gears meshing therewith rotatable on axes coaxial with said feed operating members. i

33. In a mining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machineand adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and trans mission means between said motor and each of said members including worms rotatable on parallel vertical axes, and a plurality of worm gears meshing therewith rotatable on axes coaxial with said feed operating memhers. w

34. In mining machine, a motor, a plurality of feed or rating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and one of said members including worms rotatable on parallel vertical axes, a plurality of worm meshing therewith rotatable on axes coaxial with said feed operatingmembers, a transmission shaft, and friction clutches for selectively connecting said gears with said shaft.

In a

i 111; chine,

motor,

rality of feed operating in mbcis rot on par; llel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and adaoted to cooperate directly ith flexible footing means, an l tran. mission means between said motor and each of said members includi worms rotatable on parallel vertical axes, a plurality of worm gears nierhing :erewith one disposed coaxially with each of said members, transmission shafts, and friction clutches for sdcctively connecting with said shafts.

3G. l he combination with a mining machine of the type which is on the a plurality of 'ncluding coaxial guide sheaves iis oseo. in-

termediate said eed operating member s. 38. The combination with a mining chine, of feeding means ther for inclu ing feed operating members rotatable on par llcl axes and adapted to coo ierate with flexible feeding means, and guiding means for said flexible feeoing means including co. :zial guide sheaves disposed at each. side of feed operating members.

39. The combination with a mining ma chine, of feeding means therefor inclucing feed ope 'atin members rotatable on parallel axes Xtending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate vith flexible feeding means, and guiding means for s id flexible feeding means including coaxial guide sheaves disposed each site of and intermediate said feed operating members.

d0. The combination with a mining machine, of feeding means therefor includii g feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine ant. adapted to cooperate with flexible 1" eding means, and guiding means for said nexible feeding means including coax al guide sheaves disposed at each side of and intermediate said feed operat'ng members and ro tatable in planes above and below the axes of the latter.

all. In a mining machine, motor, a pl 1' rality of feed operating memb," on parallel axes and each adap ed to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and

transmission means between said motor and said feed operating members including a worm rotatable on a vertical axis, and planetary gearing disposed coaxially with said members.

i2. In a mining machine, a motor, a plu- 'ality of inde iendently operable feed operatin members driven thereby rotatable on par. el axes extending longitudinally of the machine i. each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, and t 'ansmission means between. said motor and each of said nei'nbers including a plurality of gears disposed coaxially therewith, and friction clutches.

4-3. In a mining machine, a motor, a plurality feed operating members driven thereby rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each .pted to cooperate direc ly with flexible U means, and transini )11 means between said motor and each of said members ig a plurality of gears disposed cothere with, and selectively operative fric on clutches.

ll. The combination with a mining ma- .e, feeding means therefor including a crating member adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, a plui of friction clutches disposed coaxially ith, and cans for selectively applying n clinches including a plurality of pivoted ippcr yolzes and a spring acting between yokes.

la a mining machine, a motor, and a *lurality of feed operating members driven tuereby rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the acliine and adapted to cooperate directly with fi Xible feeding r-i at and means for controlling said members incl uling friction clutches disposed coaxially therewith.

46. i; mining machine slidable on its bott: on a mine bottom, a motor, a cutter chain driven thereby, and transmission means be tween said motor and said cutter chain ing gearing rotatable in planes above and of said cutter chain. machine slidable on its bot- .iine bottom, a motor, a cutter thereby including a drive ion means between ad cutter chain including zsed ii. a plane above said cutter disposed. coaxially with and e We sprocket. e combination with a mining Inacomprising a longitudinally movable about which a cutie chain is d to be circulated, of a guard device cutter chain cmnprising laterally ed parallel longitudinally extending .lar members connected together at one ear and through which said cutter chain is adapted to pass.

49. The combination with an invertible mining machine having a frame presenting parallel plane surfaces upon which the same is adapted to be selectively supported, and a cutter bar extending longitudinally from said frame about which a cutter chain is adapted o be circulated, of shrouding means to guard .ie cutters of said chain when the machine is supported upon either plane surface.

50. The combination with a mining machine comprising a longitudinally movable cutter bar about which a cutter chain is adapted to be circulated, said bar being pro vided with parallel longitudinally extending grooves, of a guard device for said cutter ch comprising parallel longitudinally extent. tubular members connected together through which the cutter chain is at one end adapted to pass, said members being guided in the grooves in said bar.

51. The combination with a mining machine comprising a longitudinally movable cutter bar about which a cutter chain is adapted to be circulated, of a guard devicebar extending longitudinally from said frame about which a cutter chain is adapted .to circulate, of means to guard the cutter chain when the machine is supported upon either plane surface, said means comprising parallel longitudinally extending tubular 1nembers through which the cutter chain passes.

58. The combination with a mining machine comprising a longitudinally movable cutter bar about which a cutter chain is adapted to be circulated, of a guard device for said cutter chain comprising parallel longitudinally extending telescopically arranged tubular members, certain of said members being connected together at one end and through which the cutter chain passes.

54. In a mining machine of the type slidable on its bottom over a mine bottom during cutting, machine guiding and feeding mecha nism including flexible feeding means including a plurality of flexible feeding portions, a plurality of alternatively operative worms of different pitch operatively connected with one another by intermeshing spur gears, and a plurality of feed operating members rotatable upon parallel axes cooperating respectively with said flexible portions and selectively connectible in driving relation with nism including flexible feeding means includ-, ing a plurality of flexible feeding portions, a

plurality of alternatively operative worms of'different pitch operatively connected with one another by intermeshing spur gears, and a plurality of feed operating members rotatable upon parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine cooperating, respectively, with said flexible portions and selectively connectible with said worms.

' 56. In a mining machine of the type slida-ble on its bottom over a mine bottom during cutting, machine guiding and feeding mechanism including flexible feeding means including a plurality of flexible feeding portions, a plurality of alternatively operative worms of different pitch operatively con nected with one another by intermeshin g spur gears, and a plurality of feed operating members cooperating respectively with said flexible portions and selectivelyconnectible with said worms, said feed operating members being arranged for rotation on'parallel axes.

57. In a mining machine, feeding mechanism including flexible feeding means includ ing a plurality of flexible feeding portions, a plurality of alternatively operative worms of different pitch operatively connected with one another by intermeshing spur gears, and a pluralityof feed operating members cooperating respectively with said flexible portions and selectively ,connectible with said worms, said feed operating members being arranged for rotation upon parallel longitudinally extending axes.

58. In a mining machine of the type slid- Vable on its bottom over a mine bottom during cutting, machine feeding and guiding mechanism including flexible feeding means including aplurality of flexible feeding portions, a plurality of worms rotatable on parallel axes and operative as feed driving members, and a plurality of feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes cooperating respectively with said feeding portions and connectible with said worms.

59. In a mining machine, feeding mechanism including flexible feeding means including a plurality of flexible feeding portions, a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine cooperating with one of said flexible feeding portions, and driving mechanism for said feed operating member including a plurality of spiral gears of different pitch alternatively operative as driving members, cooperating spiral gears driven thereby, and a plurality of clutches which determine which spiral gear shall constitute the driving element.

60. In a mining machine, feeding mechanism including flexible means providing a plurality of flexible feeding portions, feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes cooperating with each of said portions, and driving mechanism for each of said feed operating members including a plurality of spiral gears of different pitch al ernatively operative as drive members, cooperating spiral gears driven by said first mentioned spiral gears, a shaft coaxial with said cooperating spiral gears, disc clutches for each of said cooperating gears controlling the connection of said gears to said shaft, and operative connections between said shaft and the feed operating member driven thereby including separate clutches between said shaft and each of said members.

61. In a mining machine, feeding mechanism including flexible feeding means providing a plurality of flexible feeding portions, feed operating members rotatable upon parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine cooperating with each of said portions, and driving mechanisms for each of said feed operating members including a plurality of spiral gears of different pitch alternatively operative as drive members, co operating spiral gears drivenby said first mentioned spiral gears, shaft coaxial with said cooperating spiral gears, a disc clutch for each cooperating gear controlling the connection of said gear to said shaft, and operative connections between said shaft and said feed operating members including separate clutches between said shaft and each of said members, each feed operating member and all of said clutches through which it is driven being coaxial with its respective shaft.

62. In a mining machine, a motor, feed operating members rotatable in the same vertical transverse plane on axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, cutting mechanism, transmission means between said motor and said feed operating members, and means for driving said cutting mechanism from said transmission means which drives said feed operating members.

63. In a mining machine, a motor, feed operating members rotatable in the same transverse plane on parallel xes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and said feed operating members including a plurality of worm gears disposed coaxially therewith.

64;. In a mining machine, a motor, feed operating members rotatable in the same trans verse plane on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine and each adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and transmission means between said motor and said feed operating members including a plurality of friction clutches disposed coaxially therewith.

6F In a mining machine, a driving motor, feeding means driven thereby including feed operating members rotatable in the same transv rse plane on parallel axes and adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means, and a friction clutch disposed coaxially with each of said members.

66. In a mining machine, a motor, cutting mechanism actuated thereby, and feeding means driven by said motor including feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes and each adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means. and transmission m ans between said motor and said cutting mechanism including a clutch, and operating means for said clutch disposed between the axes of said feed operating members.

ii mining machine comprising a frame presenting parallel plane surfaces upon which the machine is adapted to be selectively supported during cutting, and feeding means for said machine operable while supported on either surface i eluding feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes and each adapted to cooperate with flexible feeding means.

68. A mining machine comprising a frame presenting parallel plane surfaces upon which the machine is adapted to be selectively supported during cutting, and feeding means for said machine operable while supported on either surface including feed operating members rotatable on parallel horizontal axes extending longitudinally of the machine.

69. A mining machine comprising a frame presenting parallel plane surfaces upon which the machine is adapted to be selectively supported during cutting, and feedin means for said machine operable while supported on either surface including feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes in the same transverse plane and each adapted to cooperate with flexible feedin means.

70. A mining machine comprising a frame presenting parallel plane surfaces upon whit-l the machine is adapted to be selectively supported during cutting, and feeding means for said machine while supported oncither sur-- face including feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes at the rear end of said machine and each adapted to cooper: with flexible feeding means.

71. In a. mining machine adapted to be supported on a truck, means for driving the truck from said machine including independently operable driving elements rotatable on parallel extending longitudinally of the machine and either rotatable to effect drive while the other is s Ionary.

In a mining machii'ie adapted to be s p" ported on a tlLlClZ. means for driving the trucl: from said maclnne including independently operable driving elements rotatable on parallel extending longitudinally of the machine, and driving and controlling means for .llU

said elements including clutches axially therewith.

T3. In a mining machine adapted to be sup ported on a truck, means for driving the truclr from said machine including independently operable driving elements rotatable on parallel axes ex ending longitudinally of th ma chine, and driving and controlling means for said elements including sliding clutches disposed coaxi ally therewith.

74-. In a mining apparatus, a mining machine slidable on the mine bottom during cutting, a truck adapted to support the machine for transport including independently operable truck driving elemei its rotatable on par-' allel axes, and means whereby said elements may be driven from said machine.

75. In a mining machine, feeding mechanism including feed operating members rotatable on parallel axes extending longitudinally of the machine, each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding'means, a

disposed cotruck adapted to support said machine hav ing a truck driving element adapted to be disposed coaxially with one of said feed opermembers, and means whereby said truck driving element may be driven from said machine. i

76. Ina mining achinafeeding mechanism including feed operating members r0 tatable on parallel axes extending longitudi nally of the machine, each adapted to cooperate directly with flexible feeding means, a truck adapted to support said machine having true driving elemenos rotatable on parallel longitudinally extending axes, and means whereby said feed operating members and said truck driving elements may be selectively driven from said feeding mecha nism.

77. In mining machine, the combination of a motor, a pair offeed operating shafts mounted for rotation on'parallel axes extending longit dinally of the machine, and power transmitting means between said motor and shafts comprising a pair of vertically lis-- posed shafts positioned between said feed operating shafts and respectively geared thereto at different speed ratios, and means for transmitting the drive through either vertical shaft.

'78. In a mining machine, a horizontal driving motor having its axis extendin longitudinally of the machine, and fee- 1g means driven thereby includin a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extend ng lon gitudinally of the machine and ed to cooperate dir ctly with a flexible feeding memher, and a worm driving gear disposed coaxially therewith.

79. In a mining machine, horizontal drivinc; motor having its axis extending longitudn .lly of the machine, and feeding means driven thereby including a feed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to-cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, and a plurality of worm gears disposed coaxially therewith and selectively operable to drive said member.

80. In a mining mach ne, a driving motor, and feeding means driven thereby including a reed operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, and a plurality of Worm disposedcoaxially therewith and selectively operable to drive said member.

81. In a mining machine, a driving motor, feeding i ieans driven thereby including operating member rotatable on an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapt-ed to cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, and a plurality of Worm disposed coax'ally therewith and selectively'operable to drive said member at difent pred termined speeds.

82. In n'iining machine, a driving motor, and net ing means driven thereby including a feed operating member rotatable on an axis xtendiug longitudinally of the machine and dapted to cooperate directly with a flexible ceding member, a plurality of worm gears disposed coaxially therewith. and selectively operable to drive said member at different iedete mined speeds, and means for varying said speeds.

83. In a mining machine, a feed operating member rotatable about an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, driving means therefor including a 'motor, a shaft disposed coaxially with said member, a second shaft disposed transversely of said axis, gears mounted directly on each of said shafts and meshing with each other, and means for rotating said coaxial shaft in opposite directions without reversing said motor.

'84. In a mining machine, a feed operating member rotatable about an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, driving means therefor including a motor, a shaft disposed coaxially with said member, a second shaft disposed transversely of axis, gears mounted directly on each of said shafts and meshing with each other, and means for rotating one of said shafts in opposite directions without reversing said motor. 1

85. In a mining machine, a feed operating member rotatable about, an axis extending longitudinally of the machine and adapted to cooperate directly with a flexible feeding member, driving means therefor including a mo or, a shaft disposed coaxiall'y with said member, a second shaft disposed transversely of said axis, gears mounted directly on each of said shafts and meshing with each other, 

